This article includes discussion of duloxetine and Cymbalta. The foregoing terms may include synonyms, similar disorders, variations in usage, and abbreviations.

Historical note and terminology

Duloxetine hydrochloride was originally developed as an antidepressant for the treatment of major depressive disorder including both the emotional and physical symptoms. Later it was found to be effective for the relief of neuropathic pain in diabetic neuropathy; it was approved for this indication by the FDA in 2004 and is the focus of this article. The generic name, duloxetine, is the most commonly used name worldwide. There are numerous trade names, of which the best known is Cymbalta.

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